Information on recall

Wednesday

Sep 25, 2013 at 12:01 AM

I am writing this letter in the hope that I can clarify any questions people may have, and to ask for their support in the upcoming recall election for Chuck Abshagen, Jessie Horrocks, and Gary Wregglesworth.
I would like to address some of the issues regarding the police situation here in Onaway. The cities funding from property taxes and revenue sharing has continued to drop. This year's revenue is more than $80,000 lower than just five years ago. During that period of time the city used any excess from the water, sewer and street funds to offset some of the general fund deficit. By doing that the city was not able to make any improvements for water, sewer or streets. It was the decision of this city commission to take the necessary steps needed to plug the hole in our general fund.
The total yearly cost of the Onaway Police Department was approximately $75,000. By eliminating that department and contracting with the Presque Isle Sheriffs Department it is estimated that this city will be saving over $40,000 each year. The decision that this commission made was not a personal one, it was an economic one!
I hope that this commission can count on the voter’s support in the upcoming election. Your vote counts, but only if you vote! When you goto the polls you will find a commission member’s name, and an opponent’s listed on the recall ballot. By voting for the commission member you will be defeating this recall action and affirming your support for the work we do.
The Onaway City Commission has a proven track record over the many years that we have served. I am asking for the votefs support in this very important election so that this commission may continue working on their behalf.
Bernie Schmeltzer
Onaway City Commissioner